Chapter 5
Currency Derivatives
Lecture Outline
Forward Market
How MNCs Use Forward Contracts
Non-Deliverable Forward Contracts
Currency Futures Market
Contract Specifications
Trading Futures
Comparison of Currency Futures and Forward Contracts
Pricing Currency Futures
Credit Risk of Currency Futures Contracts
Speculation with Currency Futures
How Firms Use Currency Futures
Closing Out a Futures Position
Trading Platforms for Currency Futures
Currency Options Market
Options Exchanges
Over-the-Counter Market
Currency Call Options
Factors Affecting Call Option Premiums
How Firms Use Currency Call Options
Speculating with Currency Call Options
Currency Put Options
Factors Affecting Currency Put Option Premiums
Hedging with Currency Put Options
Speculating with Currency Put Options
Contingency Graphs for Currency Options
Conditional Currency Options
European Currency Options
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Chapter 5: Currency Derivatives
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Chapter Theme
This chapter provides an overview of currency derivatives, which are sometimes referred to as
“speculative.” Yet, firms are increasing their use of these instruments for hedging purposes. The
chapter does give speculation some attention, since this is a good way to illustrate the use of a
particular instrument based on certain expectations. However, the key is that students have an
understanding why firms would consider using these instruments and under what conditions they
would use them.
Topics to Stimulate Class Discussion
1. Why would a firm ever consider futures contracts instead of forward contracts?
2. What advantage do currency options offer that are not available with futures or forward contracts?
3. What are some disadvantages of currency option contracts?
4. Why do currency futures prices change over time?
5. Why do currency options prices change over time?
6. Set up several scenarios, and for each scenario, ask students to determine whether it would be
better for the firm to purchase (or sell) forward contracts, futures contracts, call option contracts,
or put options contracts.
POINT/COUNTER-POINT:
Should Speculators Use Currency Futures or Options?
POINT: Speculators should use currency futures because they can avoid a substantial premium. To the
extent that they are willing to speculate, they must have confidence in their expectations. If they have
sufficient confidence in their expectations, they should bet on their expectations without having to pay
a large premium to cover themselves if they are wrong. If they do not have confidence in their
expectations, they should not speculate at all.
COUNTER-POINT: Speculators should use currency options to fit the degree of their confidence. For
example, if they are very confident that a currency will appreciate substantially, but want to limit their
investment, they can buy deep out-of-the-money options. These options have a high exercise price but
a low premium, and therefore require a small investment. Alternatively, they can buy options that have
a lower exercise price (higher premium), which will likely generate a greater return if the currency
appreciates. Speculation involves risk. Speculators must recognize that their expectations may be
wrong. While options require a premium, the premium is worthwhile to limit the potential downside
risk. Options enable speculators to select the degree of downside risk that they are willing to tolerate.
WHO IS CORRECT? Use the Internet to learn more about this issue. Which argument do you
support? Offer your own opinion on this issue.
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International Financial Management
ANSWER: By comparing futures with options, students should recognize the tradeoff that is formed
by the two opposing arguments. The choice of options versus futures may depend on the probability
distribution of future exchange rate movements. Speculators who are confident that the exchange rate
will appreciate, with very little risk of depreciation, may be more willing to buy futures than call
options, because they do not need to insure against depreciation. However, speculators who expect
appreciation but want to cover against possible depreciation may be willing to buy call options so that
their downside risk is limited to what they pay for the call option.
Answers to End of Chapter Questions
1. Selling Currency Call Options. Mike Suerth sold a call option on Canadian dollars for $.01 per
unit. The strike price was $.76, and the spot rate at the time the option was exercised was $.82.
Assume Mike did not obtain Canadian dollars until the option was exercised. Also assume that
there are 50,000 units in a Canadian dollar option. What was Mike’s net profit on the call option?
ANSWER:
Premium received per unit
Amount per unit received from selling C$
Amount per unit paid when purchasing C$
Net profit per unit
Net Profit = 50,000 units × (–$.05)
= $.01
= $.76
= $.82
= –$.05
= –$2,500
2. Hedging with Currency Derivatives. A U.S. professional football team plans to play an
exhibition game in the United Kingdom next year. Assume that all expenses will be paid by the
British government, and that the team will receive a check for 1 million pounds. The team anticipates that the pound will depreciate substantially by the scheduled date of the game. In addition,
the National Football League must approve the deal, and approval (or disapproval) will not occur
for three months. How can the team hedge its position? What is there to lose by waiting three
months to see if the exhibition game is approved before hedging?
ANSWER: The team could purchase put options on pounds in order to lock in the amount at
which it could convert the 1 million pounds to dollars. The expiration date of the put option should
correspond to the date in which the team would receive the 1 million pounds. If the deal is not
approved, the team could let the put options expire.
If the team waits three months, option prices will have changed by then. If the pound has
depreciated over this three-month period, put options with the same exercise price would
command higher premiums. Therefore, the team may wish to purchase put options immediately.
The team could also consider selling futures contracts on pounds, but it would be obligated to
exchange pounds for dollars in the future, even if the deal is not approved.
3. Speculating with Currency Put Options. Alice Duever purchased a put option on British pounds
for $.04 per unit. The strike price was $1.80 and the spot rate at the time the pound option was
exercised was $1.59. Assume there are 31,250 units in a British pound option. What was Alice’s
net profit on the option?
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Chapter 5: Currency Derivatives
ANSWER:
Profit per unit on exercising the option
Premium paid per unit
Net profit per unit
Net profit for one option = 31,250 units × $.17
= $.21
= $.04
= $.17
= $5,312.50
4. Speculating with Currency Put Options. Bulldog, Inc., has sold Australian dollar put options at
a premium of $.01 per unit, and an exercise price of $.76 per unit. It has forecasted the Australian
dollar’s lowest level over the period of concern as shown in the following table. Determine the net
profit (or loss) per unit to Bulldog, Inc., if each level occurs and the put options are exercised at
that time.
ANSWER:
Possible Value
of Australian Dollar
$.72
.73
.74
.75
.76
Net Profit (Loss) to
Bulldog, Inc. if Value Occurs
–$.03
–.02
–.01
.00
.01
5. Speculating with Currency Call Options. Randy Rudecki purchased a call option on British
pounds for $.02 per unit. The strike price was $1.45 and the spot rate at the time the option was
exercised was $1.46. Assume there are 31,250 units in a British pound option. What was Randy’s
net profit on this option?
ANSWER:
Profit per unit on exercising the option
Premium paid per unit
Net profit per unit
Net profit per option = 31,250 units × (–$.01)
= $.01
= $.02
= –$.01
= –$312.50
6. Speculating with Currency Call Options. Bama Corp. has sold British pound call options for
speculative purposes. The option premium was $.06 per unit, and the exercise price was $1.58.
Bama will purchase the pounds on the day the options are exercised (if the options are exercised)
in order to fulfill its obligation. In the following table, fill in the net profit (or loss) to Bama Corp.
if the listed spot rate exists at the time the purchaser of the call options considers exercising them.
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ANSWER:
Possible Spot Rate at the
Time Purchaser of Call Option
Considers Exercising Them
$1.53
1.55
1.57
1.60
1.62
1.64
1.68
Net Profit (Loss) per
Unit to Bama Corporation
if Spot Rate Occurs
$.06
.06
.06
.04
.02
.00
–.04
7. Currency Put Option Premiums. List the factors that affect currency put options and briefly
explain the relationship that exists for each.
ANSWER: These factors are listed below:
•
•
•
The lower the existing spot rate relative to the strike price, the greater is the put option value,
other things equal.
The longer the period prior to the expiration date, the greater is the put option value, other
things equal.
The greater the variability of the currency, the greater is the put option value, other things
equal.
8. Speculating with Currency Put Options. Auburn Co. has purchased Canadian dollar put options
for speculative purposes. Each option was purchased for a premium of $.02 per unit, with an
exercise price of $.86 per unit. Auburn Co. will purchase the Canadian dollars just before it
exercises the options (if it is feasible to exercise the options). It plans to wait until the expiration
date before deciding whether to exercise the options. In the following table, fill in the net profit (or
loss) per unit to Auburn Co. based on the listed possible spot rates of the Canadian dollar on the
expiration date.
ANSWER:
Possible Spot Rate
of Canadian Dollar
on Expiration Date
$.76
.79
.84
.87
.89
.91
Net Profit (Loss) per Unit
to Auburn Corporation
if Spot Rate Occurs
$.08
.05
.00
–.02
–.02
–.02
9. Currency Call Option Premiums. List the factors that affect currency call option premiums and
briefly explain the relationship that exists for each. Do you think an at-the-money call option in
euros has a higher or lower premium than an at-the-money call option in Mexican pesos (assuming
the expiration date and the total dollar value represented by each option are the same for both
options)?
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Chapter 5: Currency Derivatives
ANSWER: These factors are listed below:
•
•
•
The higher the existing spot rate relative to the strike price, the greater is the call option value,
other things equal.
The longer the period prior to the expiration date, the greater is the call option value, other
things equal.
The greater the variability of the currency, the greater is the call option value, other things
equal.
The at-the-money call option in euros should have a lower premium because the euro should have
less volatility than the peso (assuming that the expected volatility of the euro is lower than that of
the peso).
10. Speculating with Currency Call Options. LSU Corp. purchased Canadian dollar call options for
speculative purposes. If these options are exercised, LSU will immediately sell the Canadian
dollars in the spot market. Each option was purchased for a premium of $.03 per unit, with an
exercise price of $.75. LSU plans to wait until the expiration date before deciding whether to
exercise the options. Of course, LSU will exercise the options at that time only if it is feasible to
do so. In the following table, fill in the net profit (or loss) per unit to LSU Corp. based on the
listed possible spot rates of the Canadian dollar on the expiration date.
ANSWER:
Possible Spot Rate
of Canadian Dollar
on Expiration Date
$.76
.78
.80
.82
.85
.87
Net Profit (Loss) per
Unit to LSU Corporation
if Spot Rate Occurs
–$.02
.00
.02
.04
.07
.09
11. Speculating With Currency Options. When should a speculator purchase a call option on
Australian dollars? When should a speculator purchase a put option on Australian dollars?
ANSWER: Speculators should purchase a call option on Australian dollars if they expect the
Australian dollar value to appreciate substantially over the period specified by the option contract.
Speculators should purchase a put option on Australian dollars if they expect the Australian dollar
value to depreciate substantially over the period specified by the option contract.
12. Speculating with Currency Futures. Assume that a March futures contract on Mexican pesos
was available in January for $.09 per unit. Also assume that forward contracts were available for
the same settlement date at a price of $.092 per peso. How could speculators capitalize on this
situation, assuming zero transaction costs? How would such speculative activity affect the
difference between the forward contract price and the futures price?
ANSWER: Speculators could purchase peso futures for $.09 per unit, and simultaneously sell
pesos forward at $.092 per unit. When the pesos are received (as a result of the futures position)
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International Financial Management
on the settlement date, the speculators would sell the pesos to fulfill their forward contract
obligation. This strategy results in a $.002 per unit profit.
As many speculators capitalize on the strategy described above, they would place upward pressure
on futures prices and downward pressure on forward prices. Thus, the difference between the
forward contract price and futures price would be reduced or eliminated.
13. Hedging With Currency Options. When would a U.S. firm consider purchasing a call option on
euros for hedging? When would a U.S. firm consider purchasing a put option on euros for
hedging?
ANSWER: A call option can hedge a firm’s future payables denominated in euros. It effectively
locks in the maximum price to be paid for euros.
A put option on euros can hedge a U.S. firm’s future receivables denominated in euros. It
effectively locks in the minimum price at which it can exchange euros received.
14. Hedging with Currency Derivatives. Assume that the transactions listed in the first column of
the following table are anticipated by U.S. firms that have no other foreign transactions. Place an
“X” in the table wherever you see possible ways to hedge each of the transactions.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Georgetown Co. plans to purchase Japanese goods denominated in yen.
Harvard, Inc., sold goods to Japan, denominated in yen.
Yale Corp. has a subsidiary in Australia that will be remitting funds to the U.S. parent.
Brown, Inc., needs to pay off existing loans that are denominated in Canadian dollars.
Princeton Co. may purchase a company in Japan in the near future (but the deal may not go
through).
ANSWER:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Forward Contract
Forward
Forward
Sale
Purchase
X
X
X
X
Futures Contract
Buy
Sell
Futures
Futures
X
X
X
X
Options Contract
Purchase
Purchase
Calls
Puts
X
X
X
X
X
15. Effects of a Forward Contract. How can a forward contract backfire?
ANSWER: If the spot rate of the foreign currency at the time of the transaction is worth less than
the forward rate that was negotiated, or is worth more than the forward rate that was negotiated,
the forward contract has backfired.
16. Price Movements of Currency Futures. Assume that on November 1, the spot rate of the British
pound was $1.58 and the price on a December futures contract was $1.59. Assume that the pound
depreciated during November so that by November 30 it was worth $1.51.
a. What do you think happened to the futures price over the month of November? Why?
Chapter 5: Currency Derivatives
57
ANSWER: The December futures price would have decreased, because it reflects expectations of
the future spot rate as of the settlement date. If the existing spot rate is $1.51, the spot rate
expected on the December futures settlement date is likely to be near $1.51 as well.
b. If you had known that this would occur, would you have purchased or sold a December
futures contract in pounds on November 1? Explain.
ANSWER: You would have sold futures at the existing futures price of $1.59. Then as the spot
rate of the pound declined, the futures price would decline and you could close out your futures
position by purchasing a futures contract at a lower price. Alternatively, you could wait until the
settlement date, purchase the pounds in the spot market, and fulfill the futures obligation by
delivering pounds at the price of $1.59 per pound.
17. Forward Premium. Compute the forward discount or premium for the Mexican peso whose 90day forward rate is $.102 and spot rate is $.10. State whether your answer is a discount or
premium.
ANSWER: (F – S)/S
= ($.102 – $.10)/$.10 × (360/90)
= –.08, or –8%, which reflects a 8% discount
18. Speculating with Currency Futures. Assume that the euro’s spot rate has moved in cycles over
time. How might you try to use futures contracts on euros to capitalize on this tendency? How
could you determine whether such a strategy would have been profitable in previous periods?
ANSWER: Use recent movements in the euro to forecast future movements. If the euro has been
strengthening, purchase futures on euros. If the euro has been weakening, sell futures on euros.
A strategy’s profitability can be determined by comparing the amount paid for each contract to the
amount for which each contract was sold.
19. Currency Options. Differentiate between a currency call option and a currency put option.
ANSWER: A currency call option provides the right to purchase a specified currency at a
specified price within a specified period of time. A currency put option provides the right to sell a
specified currency for a specified price within a specified period of time.
20. Forward versus Currency Option Contracts. What are the advantages and disadvantages to a
U.S. corporation that uses currency options on euros rather than a forward contract on euros to
hedge its exposure in euros? Explain why an MNC use forward contracts to hedge committed
transactions and use currency options to hedge contracts that are anticipated but not committed.
Why might forward contracts be advantageous for committed transactions, and currency options
be advantageous for anticipated transactions?
ANSWER: A currency option on euros allows more flexibility since it does not commit one to
purchase or sell euros (as is the case with a euro futures or forward contract). Yet, it does allow the
option holder to purchase or sell euros at a locked-in price.
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International Financial Management
The disadvantage of a euro option is that the option itself is not free. One must pay a premium for
the call option, which is above and beyond the exercise price specified in the contract at which the
euro could be purchased.
An MNC may use forward contracts to hedge committed transactions because it would be cheaper
to use a forward contract (a premium would be paid on an option contract that has an exercise
price equal to the forward rate). The MNC may use currency options contracts to hedge
anticipated transactions because it has more flexibility to let the contract go unexercised if the
transaction does not occur.
21. Using Currency Futures.
a. How can currency futures be used by corporations?
ANSWER: U.S. corporations that desire to lock in a price at which they can sell a foreign
currency would sell currency futures. U.S. corporations that desire to lock in a price at which they
can purchase a foreign currency would purchase currency futures.
b. How can currency futures be used by speculators?
ANSWER: Speculators who expect a currency to appreciate could purchase currency futures
contracts for that currency. Speculators who expect a currency to depreciate could sell currency
futures contracts for that currency.
22. Selling Currency Put Options. Brian Tull sold a put option on Canadian dollars for $.03 per unit.
The strike price was $.75, and the spot rate at the time the option was exercised was $.72. Assume
Brian immediately sold off the Canadian dollars received when the option was exercised. Also
assume that there are 50,000 units in a Canadian dollar option. What was Brian’s net profit on the
put option?
ANSWER:
Premium received per unit
Amount per unit received from selling C$
Amount per unit paid for C$
Net profit per unit
= $.03
= $.72
= $.75
= $0
23. Forward versus Futures Contracts. Compare and contrast forward and futures contracts.
ANSWER: Because currency futures contracts are standardized into small amounts, they can be
valuable for the speculator or small firm (a commercial bank’s forward contracts are more
common for larger amounts). However, the standardized format of futures forces limited
maturities and amounts.
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Chapter 5: Currency Derivatives
Advanced Questions
24. Currency Strangles. (See Appendix B in this chapter.) Assume the following options are
currently available for British pounds (₤):
•
•
•
•
•
Call option premium on British pounds = $.04 per unit
Put option premium on British pounds = $.03 per unit
Call option strike price = $1.56
Put option strike price = $1.53
One option contract represents ₤31,250.
a. Construct a worksheet for a long strangle using these options.
b. Determine the break-even point(s) for a strangle.
c. If the spot price of the pound at option expiration is $1.55, what is the total profit or loss to the
strangle buyer?
d. If the spot price of the pound at option expiration is $1.50, what is the total profit or loss to the
strangle writer?
ANSWER:
a. Many different worksheets are possible, but one worksheet is shown below.
Call
Put
Net
$1.40
–$.04
+$.10
+$.06
Value of Pound at Option Expiration
$1.53
$1.56
–$.04
–$.04
–$.03
–$.03
–$.07
–$.07
$1.65
+$.05
–$.03
+$.02
b. The break-even points for a strangle are located below the lower exercise price and above the
higher exercise price. The lower break-even point is located at $1.46 = $1.53 – ($.04 + $.03).
The higher break-even point is located at $1.63 = $1.56 + ($.04 + $.03).
c. Since $1.55 is between the two exercise prices, neither option will be exercised, and the
strangle buyer will incur the maximum loss of $.07.
d. If the spot price is $1.50, the put option will be exercised, but the call option will expire. On
the put option, the strangle writer will lose $.03 = $1.53 – $1.50. The writer will also collect
the premiums from both options of $.07. Therefore, the strangle writer will net $.04 = $.07 –
$.03 at a spot price of the pound equal to $1.50 at option expiration.
25. Profits from Using Currency Options and Futures. On July 2, the two-month futures rate of the
Mexican peso contained a 2 percent discount (unannualized). There was a call option on pesos
with an exercise price that was equal to the spot rate. There was also a put option on pesos with an
exercise price equal to the spot rate. The premium on each of these options was 3 percent of the
spot rate at that time. On September 2, the option expired. Go to the oanda.com website (or any
site that has foreign exchange rate quotations) and determine the direct quote of the Mexican peso.
You exercised the option on this date if it was feasible to do so.
a. What was your net profit per unit if you had purchased the call option?
b. What was your net profit per unit if you had purchased the put option?
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International Financial Management
c. What was your net profit per unit if you had purchased a futures contract on July 2 that had a
settlement date of September 2?
d. What was your net profit per unit if you sold a futures contract on July 2 that had a settlement
date of September 2?
ANSWER: The answer depends on exchange rates on the specified dates. This question forces
students to look up exchange rate information before determining the net profit.
26. Speculating with Currency Straddles. Maggie Hawthorne is a currency speculator. She has
noticed recently that the euro has appreciated substantially against the U.S. dollar. The current
exchange rate of the euro is $1.15. After reading a variety of articles on the subject, she believes
that the euro will continue to fluctuate substantially in the months to come. Although most
forecasters believe that the euro will depreciate against the dollar in the near future, Maggie thinks
that there is also a good possibility of further appreciation. Currently, a call option on euros is
available with an exercise price of $1.17 and a premium of $.04. A euro put option with an
exercise price of $1.17 and a premium of $.03 is also available. (See Appendix B in this chapter.)
a. Describe how Maggie could use straddles to speculate on the euro’s value.
b. At option expiration, the value of the euro is $1.30. What is Maggie’s total profit or loss from
a long straddle position?
c. What is Maggie’s total profit or loss from a long straddle position if the value of the euro is
$1.05 at option expiration?
d. What is Maggie’s total profit or loss from a long straddle position if the value of the euro at
option expiration is still $1.15?
e. Given your answers to the questions above, when is it advantageous for a speculator to engage
in a long straddle? When is it advantageous to engage in a short straddle?
ANSWER:
a. Since Maggie believes the euro will either appreciate or depreciate substantially, she may
consider purchasing a straddle on euros.
b.
Selling Price of €
– Purchase price of €
– Premium paid for call option
– Premium paid for put option
= Net profit
Per Unit
$1.30
–1.17
–.04
–.03
$.06
Per Contract
$81,250 ($1.30 × 62,500 units)
–73,125 ($1.17 × 62,500 units)
–2,500 ($.04 × 62,500 units)
–1,875 ($.03 × 62,500 units)
$3,750 ($.06 × 62,500 units)
Per Unit
$1.17
–1.05
–.04
–.03
$.05
Per Contract
$73,125 ($1.17 × 62,500 units)
–65,625 ($1.05 × 62,500 units)
–2,500 ($.04 × 62,500 units)
–1,875 ($.03 × 62,500 units)
$3,125 ($.05 × 62,500 units)
c.
Selling Price of €
– Purchase price of €
– Premium paid for call option
– Premium paid for put option
= Net profit
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Chapter 5: Currency Derivatives
d.
Selling Price of €
– Purchase price of €
– Premium paid for call option
– Premium paid for put option
= Net profit
Per Unit
$1.17
–1.15
–.04
–.03
–$.05
Per Contract
$73,125 ($1.17 × 62,500 units)
–71,875 ($1.15 × 62,500 units)
–2,500 ($.04 × 62,500 units)
–1,875 ($.03 × 62,500 units)
–$3,125 ($.05 × 62,500 units)
e. It is advantageous for a speculator to engage in a long straddle if the underlying currency is
expected to fluctuate drastically, in either direction, prior to option expiration. This is because
the advantage of benefiting from either an appreciation or depreciation is offset by the cost of
two option premiums. It is advantageous for a speculator to engage in a short straddle if the
underlying currency is not expected to deviate far from the strike price prior to option
expiration. In that case, the speculator would collect both premiums, and the loss associated
with either the call or the put option is minimal.
27. Bullspreads and Bearspreads. Two British pound (₤) put options are available with exercise
prices of $1.60 and $1.62. The premiums associated with these options are $.03 and $.04 per unit,
respectively. (See Appendix B in this chapter.)
a. Describe how a bullspread can be constructed using these put options. What is the difference
between using put options versus call options to construct a bullspread?
b. Complete the following worksheet.
Value of British Pound at Option Expiration
$1.55
$1.60
$1.62
$1.67
Put @ $1.60
Put @ $1.62
Net
a. At option expiration, the spot rate of the pound is $1.60. What is the bullspreader’s total gain
or loss?
b. At option expiration, the spot rate of the pound is $1.58. What is the bearspreader’s total gain
or loss?
ANSWER:
a. Using put options to construct a bullspread involves exactly the same actions as constructing a
bullspread using call options. The bullspreader would buy the $1.60 put option and write the
$1.62 put option. The difference between using call and put options to construct a bullspread
is that using put options results in a credit spread.
b.
Put @ $1.60
Put @ $1.62
Net
Value of British Pound at Option Expiration
$1.55
$1.60
$1.62
+$.02
–$.03
–$.03
–$.03
+$.02
+$.04
–$.01
–$.01
+$.01
$1.67
–$.03
+$.04
+$.01
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c.
Selling price of ₤
– Purchase price of ₤
– Premium paid for put option
+ Premium received for put option
= Net profit
Per Unit
$1.60
–1.62
–.03
+.04
–$.01
Per Contract
$50,000 ($1.60 × 31,250 units)
–50,625 ($1.62 × 31,250 units)
–937.50 ($.03 × 31,250 units)
+1,250 ($.04 × 31,250 units)
–$312.50 ($.01 × 31,250 units)
d. A bearspread using these put options would be constructed by writing the $1.60 put option and
buying the $1.62 put option.
Selling price of ₤
– Purchase price of ₤
+ Premium received for put option
+ Selling price of ₤
– Purchase price of ₤
– Premium paid for put option
= Net profit
Per Unit
$1.58
–1.60
+.03
$1.62
–1.58
–.04
+$.01
Per Contract
$49,375 ($1.58 × 31,250 units)
–50,000 ($1.60 × 31,250 units)
+937.50 ($.03 × 31,250 units)
+50,625 ($1.62 × 31,250 units)
–49,375 ($1.58 × 31,250 units)
–1,250 ($.04 × 31,250 units)
$312.50 ($.01 × 31,250 units)
28. Currency Option Contingency Graphs. (See Appendix B in this chapter.) The current spot rate
of the Singapore dollar (S$) is $.50. The following option information is available:
•
•
•
•
Call option premium on Singapore dollar (S$) = $.015
Put option premium on Singapore dollar (S$) = $.009
Call and put option strike price = $.55
One option contract represents S$70,000
Construct a contingency graph for a short straddle using these options.
ANSWER: The plotted points should create an upside down V shape that cuts through the
horizontal (break-even) axis at $.526 and $.574. The peak of the upside down V shape occurs at
$.55 and reflects a net profit of $.024.
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Chapter 5: Currency Derivatives
Net profit per unit
$.024
$.526
$.574
$.55
Future spot
rate
-$.526
29. Currency Bullspreads and Bearspreads. A call option on British pounds (₤) exists with a strike
price of $1.56 and a premium of $.08 per unit. Another call option on British pounds has a strike
price of $1.59 and a premium of $.06 per unit. (See Appendix B in this chapter.)
a. Complete the worksheet for a bullspread below.
Value of British Pound at Option Expiration
$1.50
$1.56
$1.59
$1.65
Call @ $1.56
Call @ $1.59
Net
b. What is the break-even point for this bullspread?
c. What is the maximum profit of this bullspread? What is the maximum loss?
d. If the British pound spot rate is $1.58 at option expiration, what is the total profit or loss for
the bullspread?
e. If the British pound spot rate is $1.55 at option expiration, what is the total profit or loss for a
bearspread?
ANSWER:
a.
Call @ $1.56
Call @ $1.59
Net
Value of British Pound at Option Expiration
$1.50
$1.56
$1.59
–$.08
–$.08
–$.05
+$.06
+$.06
+$.06
–$.02
–$.02
+$.01
$1.65
+$.01
$.00
+$.01
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International Financial Management
b. The break-even point of a bullspread occurs at the lower exercise price plus the difference in
premiums, at $1.58 = $1.56 + ($.08 – $.06).
a. The maximum gain for the bullspread is limited to the difference between the strike prices less
the difference in the premiums, or $.01 = ($1.59 – $1.56) – ($.08 – $.06). The maximum loss
for the bullspreader limited to the difference in the option premiums, or $.02.
d.
Selling Price of ₤
– Purchase price of ₤
– Premium paid for call option
+ Premium received for call option
= Net profit
Per Unit
$1.58
–1.56
–.08
+.06
$.00
Per Contract
$49,375 ($1.58 × 31,250 units)
–48,750 ($1.56 × 31,250 units)
–2,500 ($.08 × 31,250 units)
+1,875 ($.06 × 31,250 units)
$0 ($.00 × 31,250 units)
e. A bearspread using these options involves writing the call option with the $1.56 exercise price
and buying the call option with the $1.59 exercise price. At a spot price of $1.55, neither call
option will be exercised, so the bearspreader nets the difference in options premiums.
+ Premium paid for call option
– Premium received for call option
= Net profit
Per Unit
+.08
–.06
$.02
Per Contract
+2,500 ($.08 × 31,250 units)
–1,875 ($.06 × 31,250 units)
$625 ($.02 × 31,250 units)
30. Currency Straddles. Refer to the previous question, but assume that the call and put option
premiums are $.02 per unit and $.015 per unit, respectively. (See Appendix B in this chapter.)
a. Construct a contingency graph for a long euro straddle.
b. Construct a contingency graph for a short euro straddle.
ANSWER:
a. The plotted points should create a V shape that cuts through the horizontal (break-even) axis
at $1.065 and $1.135. The bottom point of the V shape occurs at $1.10, and reflects a net
profit of –$.035.
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Chapter 5: Currency Derivatives
Net profit per unit
$1.065
$1.065
$1.13
$1.1
Future spot
rate
-$.035
b. The plotted points should create an upside down V shape that cuts through the horizontal
(break-even) axis at $1.065 and $1.135. The peak of the upside down V shape occurs at $1.10
and reflects a net profit of $.035.
Net profit per unit
$.035
$1.065
$1.13
$1.1
Future spot
rate
-$1.065
31. Speculating with Currency Options. Barry Egan is a currency speculator. Barry believes that the
Japanese yen will fluctuate widely against the U.S. dollar in the coming month. Currently, onemonth call options on Japanese yen (¥) are available with a strike price of $.0085 and a premium
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International Financial Management
of $.0007 per unit. One-month put options on Japanese yen are available with a strike price of
$.0084 and a premium of $.0005 per unit. One option contract on Japanese yen contains 6.25
million yen. (See Appendix B in this chapter.)
a. Describe how Barry Egan could utilize these options to speculate on the movement of the
Japanese yen.
b. Assume Barry decides to construct a long strangle in yen. What are the break-even points of
this strangle?
c. What is Barry’s total profit or loss if the value of the yen in one month is $.0070?
d. What is Barry’s total profit or loss if the value of the yen in one month is $.0090?
ANSWER:
b. Since Barry seems uncertain as to the direction of the yen fluctuation, he could construct a
long straddle using the call and put option. The long strangle would become profitable if the
yen either depreciates or appreciates substantially.
c. Lower BE point = $.0084 – ($.0007 + $.0005) = $.0072
Upper BE point = $.0085 + ($.0007 + $.0005) = $.0097
c.
Selling Price of ¥
– Purchase price of ¥
– Premium paid for call option
– Premium paid for put option
= Net profit
Per Unit
$.0084
–.0070
–.0007
–.0005
$.0002
Per Contract
$52,500 ($.0084 × 6.25 million units)
–43,750 ($.0070 × 6.25 million units)
–4,375 ($.0007 × 6.26 million units)
–3,125 ($.0005 × 6.25 million units)
$1,250 ($.0002 × 6.25 million units)
Per Unit
$.0090
–.0085
–.0007
–.0005
–$.0007
Per Contract
$56,250 ($.0090 × 6.25 million units)
–53,125 ($.0085 × 6.25 million units)
–4,375 ($.0007 × 6.26 million units)
–3,125 ($.0005 × 6.25 million units)
–$4,375 ($.0007 × 6.25 million units)
d.
Selling Price of ¥
– Purchase price of ¥
– Premium paid for call option
– Premium paid for put option
= Net profit
32. Currency Straddles. Reska, Inc., has constructed a long euro straddle. A call option on euros with
an exercise price of $1.10 has a premium of $.025 per unit. A euro put option has a premium of
$.017 per unit. Some possible euro values at option expiration are shown in the following table.
(See Appendix B in this chapter.)
$.90
Call
Put
Net
Value of Euro at Option Expiration
$1.05
$1.50
$2.00
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Chapter 5: Currency Derivatives
a. Complete the worksheet and determine the net profit per unit to Reska Inc. for each possible
future spot rate.
b. Determine the break-even point(s) of the long straddle. What are the break-even points of a
short straddle using these options?
ANSWER:
a.
$.90
–$.025
+$.183
+$.158
Call
Put
Net
Value of Euro at Option Expiration
$1.05
$1.50
–$.025
+$.375
+$.033
–$.017
+$.008
+$.358
$2.00
+$.875
–$.017
+$.858
b. The break-even points for a long straddle can be found by subtracting and adding both
premiums to the exercise price. Thus, the break-even points are located at future euro spot
values of $1.10 – ($.025 + $.017) = $1.058 and $1.10 + ($.025 + $.017) = $1.142. The
breakeven points for a short straddle are also $1.058 and $1.142.
33. Currency Strangles. For the following options available on Australian dollars (A$), construct a
worksheet and contingency graph for a long strangle. Locate the break-even points for this
strangle. (See Appendix B in this chapter.)
•
•
•
•
Put option strike price = $.67
Call option strike price = $.65
Put option premium = $.01 per unit
Call option premium = $.02 per unit
ANSWER:
Note that the put strike price exceeds the call strike price in this case.
Own a Call
Own a Put
Net
Value of Australian dollar at Option Expiration
$.60
$.65
$.67
–$.02
–$.02
$.00
+$.06
+$.01
–$.01
+$.04
–$.01
–$.01
$.70
+$.03
–$.01
+$.02
The plotted points should create a U shape that cuts through the horizontal (break-even) axis at
$.64 and $.68. The bottom of the U shape occurs from $.65 to $.67 and reflects a net profit of –
$.01.
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International Financial Management
Net profit per unit
$.64
$.64
$.68
$.65
$.67
Future spot
rate
-$.01
The break-even points for a strangle where the put option exercise price exceeds the call option
exercise price can be obtained by subtracting the difference in premiums from the call option strike
price and by adding the difference in premiums to the put option strike price:
Lower BE = $.65 – ($.02 – $.01) = $.64
Upper BE = $.67 + ($.02 – $.01) = $.68
34. Impact of Information on Currency Futures and Options Prices. Myrtle Beach Co. purchases
imports that have a price of 400,000 Singapore dollars and it has to pay for the imports in 90 days.
It can purchase a 90-day forward contract on Singapore dollars at $.50 or purchase a call option
contract on Singapore dollars with an exercise price of $.50 to cover its payables. This morning,
the spot rate of the Singapore dollar was $.50. At noon, the central bank of Singapore raised
interest rates, while there was no change in interest rates in the U.S. These actions immediately
increased the degree of uncertainty surrounding the future value of the Singapore dollar over the
next three months. The Singapore dollar’s spot rate remained at $.50 throughout the day.
a. Myrtle Beach Co. is convinced that the Singapore dollar will definitely appreciate
substantially over the next 90 days. Would a call option hedge or forward hedge be more
appropriate given its opinion?
ANSWER:
A forward hedge would be more appropriate, because it can lock in payment at $.50 per unit with
either method, but it does not have to pay a premium when using the forward rate. It will not
benefit from the flexibility of the call option since it is convinced that the Singapore dollar will
appreciate.
b. Assume that Myrtle Beach uses a currency options contract to hedge rather than a forward
contract. If Myrtle Beach Co. purchased a currency call option contract at the money on
Singapore dollars this afternoon, would its total U.S. dollar cash outflows be MORE THAN,
Chapter 5: Currency Derivatives
69
LESS THAN, or THE SAME AS the total U.S. dollar cash outflows if it had purchased a
currency call option contract at the money this morning? Explain.
ANSWER:
More, because the option premium increased due to more uncertainty.
35. Currency Strangles. The following information is currently available for Canadian dollar (C$)
options (see Appendix B in this chapter):
•
•
•
•
•
Put option exercise price = $.75
Put option premium = $.014 per unit
Call option exercise price = $.76
Call option premium = $.01 per unit
One option contract represents C$50,000
a. What is the maximum possible gain the purchaser of a strangle can achieve using these
options?
b. What is the maximum possible loss the writer of a strangle can incur?
c. Locate the break-even point(s) of the strangle.
ANSWER:
a. The maximum gain of a long strangle is unlimited for currency appreciation. For currency
depreciation, the maximum gain is limited to the lower strike price ($.75) less both premiums
($.024), or $.726.
b. The maximum loss of a short strangle is unlimited for currency appreciation. For currency
depreciation, it is limited to the lower strike price ($.75) less both premiums ($.024), or $.726.
c. The lower break-even point is obtained by subtracting both premiums from the put option
exercise price, at $.726 = $.75 – ($.014 + $.01). The upper break-even points is obtained by
adding both premiums to the call option exercise price, at $.784 = $.76 + ($.014 + $.01).
36. Estimating Profits from Currency Futures and Options. One year ago, you sold a put option on
100,000 euros with an expiration date of one year. You received a premium on the put option of
$.04 per unit. The exercise price was $1.22. Assume that one year ago, the spot rate of the euro
was $1.20, the one-year forward rate exhibited a discount of 2%, and the one-year futures price
was the same as the one-year forward rate. From one year ago to today, the euro depreciated
against the dollar by 4 percent. Today the put option will be exercised (if it is feasible for the
buyer to do so).
a. Determine the total dollar amount of your profit or loss from your position in the put option.
ANSWER: The spot rate depreciated from $1.20 to $1.152. The loss on the put option per unit is
$1.152 – $1.22 + $.04 = –$.028. Total loss = $.028 × 100,000 = $2,800.
b. Now assume that instead of taking a position in the put option one year ago, you sold a futures
contract on 100,000 euros with a settlement date of one year. Determine the total dollar
amount of your profit or loss.
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International Financial Management
ANSWER: The forward rate one year ago was equal to: $1.20 × (1 – .02) = $1.176. So the futures
rate is $1.176. The gain per unit is $1.176 – $1.152 = $.024 and the total gain is $.024 × 100,000 =
$2,400.
37. Currency Straddles. Refer to the previous question, but assume that the call and put option
premiums are $.035 per unit and $.025 per unit, respectively. (See Appendix B in this chapter.)
c. Construct a contingency graph for a long pound straddle.
d. Construct a contingency graph for a short pound straddle.
ANSWER:
a. The plotted points should create a U shape that cuts through the horizontal (break-even) axis
at $1.47 and $1.62. The bottom of the U shape occurs from $1.53 to $1.56 and reflects a net
profit of –$.06.
Net profit per unit
$1.47
$1.47
$1.62
$1.5
$1.5
Future spot
rate
-$.06
b. The plotted points should create an upside down U shape that cuts through the horizontal
(break-even) axis at $1.47 and $1.62. The peak of the upside down U shape occurs at from
$1.53 to $1.56 and reflects a net profit of $.06.
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Chapter 5: Currency Derivatives
Net profit per unit
$.06
$1.47
$1.62
$1.5
$1.5
Future spot
rate
-$1.47
38. Risk of Currency Futures. Currency futures markets are commonly used as a means of
capitalizing on shifts in currency values, because the value of a futures contract tends to move in
line with the change in the corresponding currency value. Recently, many currencies appreciated
against the dollar. Most speculators anticipated that these currencies would continue to strengthen
and took large buy positions in currency futures. However, the Fed intervened in the foreign
exchange market by immediately selling foreign currencies in exchange for dollars, causing an
abrupt decline in the values of foreign currencies (as the dollar strengthened). Participants that had
purchased currency futures contracts incurred large losses. One floor broker responded to the
effects of the Fed’s intervention by immediately selling 300 futures contracts on British pounds
(with a value of about $30 million). Such actions caused even more panic in the futures market.
a. Explain why the central bank’s intervention caused such panic among currency futures traders
with buy positions.
ANSWER: Futures prices on pounds rose in tandem with the value of the pound. However, when
central banks intervened to support the dollar, the value of the pound declined, and so did values
of futures contracts on pounds. So traders with long (buy) positions in these contracts experienced
losses because the contract values declined.
b. Explain why the floor broker’s willingness to sell 300 pound futures contracts at the going
market rate aroused such concern. What might this action signal to other brokers?
ANSWER: Normally, this order would have been sold in pieces. This action could signal a
desperate situation in which many investors sell futures contracts at any price, which places more
downward pressure on currency future prices, and could cause a crisis.
c. Explain why speculators with short (sell) positions could benefit as a result of the central
bank’s intervention.
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International Financial Management
ANSWER: The central bank intervention placed downward pressure on the pound and other
European currencies. Thus, the values of futures contracts on these currencies declined. Traders
that had short positions in futures would benefit because they could now close out their short
positions by purchasing the same contracts that they had sold earlier. Since the prices of futures
contracts declined, they would purchase the contracts for a lower price than the price at which they
initially sold the contracts.
d. Some traders with buy positions may have responded immediately to the central bank’s
intervention by selling futures contracts. Why would some speculators with buy positions
leave their positions unchanged or even increase their positions by purchasing more futures
contracts in response to the central bank’s intervention?
ANSWER: Central bank intervention sometimes has only a temporary effect on exchange rates.
Thus, the European currencies could strengthen after a temporary effect caused by central bank
intervention. Traders have to predict whether natural market forces will ultimately overwhelm any
pressure induced as a result of central bank intervention.
Solution to Continuing Case Problem: Blades, Inc.
1. If Blades uses call options to hedge its yen payables, should it use the call option with the exercise
price of $0.00756 or the call option with the exercise price of $0.00792? Describe the tradeoff.
ANSWER: The table shows how the option choices have changed for Blades. If it wants to ensure
paying no more than 5 percent above the spot rate, the option with the exercise price of $0.00756
should be considered, although the premium on that option now has increased to be worth 2
percent of the exercise price (more expensive). The option premium is higher than what the firm
normally prefers to pay. The firm could pay a lower premium by purchasing the alternative option
with an exercise price of $0.00792, but that exercise price is 10 percent above the existing spot
rate. This alternative option does not achieve the firm’s desire to ensure paying no more than 5
percent above the existing spot rate. So if the firm is to continue to use options, it must accept
either paying a higher premium than it would prefer, or a higher exercise price that limits the
effectiveness of the hedge. If it decides to use an option, the tradeoff is paying a premium of
$1,417.50 to limit the payables amount to $99,000 or paying a premium of $1,890 to limit the
payables amount to $94,500. The preferred option depends on the firm’s assessment about the yen,
but many analysts would select the higher premium (an extra $472.50) to pay for the lower limit
on payables.
2. Should Blades allow its yen position to be unhedged? Describe the tradeoff.
ANSWER: Blades could also remain unhedged, but given its previous desire to hedge because of
the volatile movements even before the event, it would have an even stronger desire to hedge once
the event caused more uncertainty about the yen’s future value. Since futures prices were not
affected by the uncertainty-increasing event, Blades should seriously consider futures contracts as
an alternative to options. Thus, the firm could purchase a futures contract and lock in its future
payment at the same futures price as before the event.
3. Assume there are speculators who attempt to capitalize on their expectation of the yen’s
movement over the two months between the order and delivery dates by either buying or selling
yen futures now and buying or selling yen at the future spot rate. Given this information, what is
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Chapter 5: Currency Derivatives
the expectation on the order date of the yen spot rate by the delivery date? (Your answer should
consist of one number.)
ANSWER: If there are speculators who attempt to capitalize on their expectation of the yen’s
future movement, then the expectation of the future spot rate would be equal to the futures rate.
For example, suppose speculators expect the yen to appreciate. They would buy yen futures now.
If the yen appreciates, they will buy the yen at the futures rate in two months and sell them at the
spot rate prevailing at that time. Thus, if the market expectation is that the yen will appreciate, all
speculators will engage in similar actions, which would place upward pressure on the futures rate
and downward pressure on the expected future spot rate. This process continues until the futures
rate is equal to the expected future spot rate. Therefore, the expected spot rate at the delivery date
is equal to the futures rate, $0.006912.
4. Assume that the firm shares the market consensus of the future yen spot rate. Given this
expectation and given that the firm makes a decision (i.e., option, futures contract, remain
unhedged) purely on a cost basis, what would be its optimal choice?
ANSWER: (See spreadsheet attached.) The optimal choice, given the expected future spot rate in
question 3 and given that the decision is made solely on a cost basis, is to purchase one futures
contract, which would result in an actual cost on the delivery date of $86,400. Although remaining
unhedged also has an expected cost of $86,400, actual costs incurred on the delivery date to
purchase yen may deviate substantially from this value, depending on the movements of the yen
between the order date and the delivery date. Consequently, the firm will probably prefer using a
futures contract over remaining unhedged.
5. Will the choice you made as to the optimal hedging strategy in question 4 definitely turn out to be
the lowest-cost alternative in terms of actual costs incurred? Why or why not?
ANSWER: No, as mentioned in the case, the yen is very volatile and, therefore, the actual costs
incurred may turn out to be lower had the firm employed either an option to hedge the yen payable
or remained unhedged. By employing a futures contract to hedge, which locks the firm into the
price it will pay to buy the yen at the delivery date, the firm forgoes any cost advantage that may
result from a substantial depreciation of the yen by the delivery date. In that case, remaining
unhedged and employing options afford the firm with the flexibility to buy yen at the spot rate;
this flexibility is not available with a futures contract.
Alternative 1—Remain Unhedged
Expected Spot Rate
Amount of Yen Payables
Cost in Two Months ($.006912 × 12,500,000 units)
$ 0.006912
12,500,000
$ 86,400.00
Alternative 2—Purchase One Futures Contract
Futures Price per Unit
Units in Contract
Cost in Two Months ($.006912 × 12,500,000)
$ 0.006912
12,500,000
$ 86,400.00
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International Financial Management
Alternative 3—Purchase Two Options
Options Information
Exercise Price
Premium per Unit
Units in Contract
Calculations
Two Options, Exercise
Price of $.00756
Two Options, Exercise
Price of $.00792
One Option of Each
Exercise Price
Option 1
$0.0075600
$0.0001512
6,250,000
Option 2
$0.0079200
$0.0001134
6,250,000
Column D
Total Paid
(Column A +
Column C)
Column A
Column B
Total Premium
(Premium per
Unit × Units)
Exercise?
(Is Spot Rate >
Exercise Price?)
Column C
Amount Paid
for Yen
(Exercise Price
× Units)
$1,890.00
No
$86,400.00
$88,290.00
$1,417.50
No
$86,400.00
$87,817.50
$1,653.75
O1-No; O2-No
$86,400.00
$88,053.75
6. Now assume that you have determined that the historical standard deviation of the yen is about
$0.0005. Based on your assessment, you believe it is highly unlikely that the future spot rate will
be more than two standard deviations above the expected spot rate by the delivery date. Also
assume that the futures price remains at its current level of $0.006912. Based on this expectation
of the future spot rate, what is the optimal hedge for the firm?
ANSWER: (See spreadsheet attached.) Although the spreadsheet is required, the answer to this
question is intuitive. If the futures rate remains at its current level while the expected spot rate at
the delivery date increases, remaining unhedged will become more expensive than hedging with a
futures contract (recall that the two alternatives have the same expected cost). However, as the
spreadsheet shows, the option with the exercise price of $0.00756 would now be exercised.
Nevertheless, since both options have an exercise price greater than the futures rate of $0.006912,
and since the expected future spot rate is greater than the futures rate, the futures contract is again
the best alternative for the firm.
Calculation of Highest Forecasted Spot Rate
Expected Spot
Standard Deviation
Spot Rate if Yen Increases 2 Standard Deviations
($.006912 + [2 × 0.0005])
$0.006912
0.000500
$0.007912
Alternative 1—Remain Unhedged
Expected Spot Rate
Amount of Yen Payables
Cost in Two Months ($.007912 × 12,500,000)
$ 0.007912
12,500,000
$ 98,900.00
Alternative 2—Purchase One Futures Contract
Futures Price per Unit
Units in Contract
Cost in Two Months ($.006912 × 12,500,000)
$ 0.006912
12,500,000
$ 86,400.00
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Chapter 5: Currency Derivatives
Alternative 3—Purchase Two Options
Options Information
Exercise Price
Premium per Unit
Units in Contract
Calculations
Two Options, Exercise
Price of $.00756
Two Options, Exercise
Price of $.00792
One Option of Each
Exercise Price
Option 1
$0.0075600
$0.0001512
6,250,000
Option 2
$0.0079200
$0.0001134
6,250,000
Column D
Total Paid
(Column A +
Column C)
Column A
Column B
Total Premium
(Premium per
Unit × Units)
Exercise?
(Is Spot Rate >
Exercise Price?)
Column C
Amount Paid
for Yen
(Exercise Price
× Units)
$1,890.00
Yes
$94,500.00
$96,390.00
$1,417.50
No
$98,900.00
$100,317.50
$1,653.75
O1-Yes; O2-No
$96,700.00
$98,353.75
Solution to Supplemental Case: Capital Crystal, Inc.
This case is designed to give students more insight on the advantages and disadvantages of currency
futures and options. More comprehensive questions on this subject are offered in Chapter 11.
a. To hedge with futures, the cost of the imports will be $795 million ($1.59 × £500 million). To
hedge with call options, the cost per unit (including the premium paid) is $1.61, so that the cost of
the imports if the option is exercised is $805 million. Since the pound’s spot rate is expected to be
above the call option’s exercise price, the call option would likely be exercised. In this case,
hedging with futures will cost $10 million less than hedging with call options.
b. Since the future spot rate is likely to exceed the futures price, hedging with futures would likely be
less costly than not hedging. Even if it was more costly, it might be wise to hedge in keeping with
the conservative management style of Capital Crystal, Inc.
This part of the case illustrates that currency call options may not always be the best choice, even
though they offer more flexibility than currency futures.
Based on the new information, the cost of importing when using futures is still $795 million. When
using the call option, if the forecast of the pound’s future spot rate is correct, the option would not
be exercised. Thus, the amount paid per unit would be the future spot rate of $1.57 plus the $.01
premium paid per unit for the option. Therefore, the cost of imports would be $790 million, or $5
million less than when using the futures hedge.
Assuming the forecast is correct, the cost of importing when not hedging is $785 million ($1.57 ×
£500 million), which is less than the cost of either hedge. However, given the conservative
management style of Capital Crystal, Inc., a hedge may still be appropriate. If the pound’s value is
just $.02 higher than forecasted in three months, Capital will have to pay $5 million more than if it
had hedged with a call option. This issue normally generates much discussion. The key question is
whether a manager should take the risk of not hedging. While this strategy is expected to save the
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International Financial Management
firm $5 million, it could backfire if the pound appreciates over the period (in which case the
manager may be reprimanded). This part of the case attempts to show that hedging is sometimes
used even if it is expected to be more costly than not hedging, because of the desire to avoid risk.
If students put themselves in the position of the managers (bonus is received if a minimum level of
performance is achieved), they would probably hedge. However, it is questionable whether this
strategy would satisfy shareholder wealth. One could argue that there are agency problems, because
managers are forced by the bonus system to avoid risk. Therefore, managers may use more
conservative strategies than what is desired by shareholders in some situations.
This case is realistic, although the name of the firm has been changed. The manager decided to use
the call options in order to avoid risk; based on the firm’s policy, he would not have benefited
directly by not hedging even if it reduced the firm’s costs. There was no real incentive to take any
chances.
Small Business Dilemma
Use of Currency Futures and Options by the Sports Exports Company
1. How can the Sports Exports Company use currency futures contracts to hedge against exchange
rate risk? Are there any limitations of using currency futures contracts that would prevent the
Sports Exports Company from locking in a specific exchange rate at which it can sell all the
pounds it expects to receive in each of the upcoming months?
ANSWER: The Sports Exports Company can hedge against exchange rate risk by selling futures
contracts on pounds. It could use settlement dates that match up with the receivable dates, or could
close out the futures contracts at the time the pounds are received. One key limitation is that the
number of units for a futures contract is standardized and therefore will not match the exact
number of pounds that the Sports Exports Company would need to sell each month.
2. How can the Sports Exports Company use currency options to hedge against exchange rate risk?
Are there any limitations of using currency options contracts that would prevent the Sports
Exports Company from locking in a specific exchange rate at which it can sell all the pounds it
expects to receive in each of the upcoming months?
ANSWER: The Sports Exports Company can hedge against exchange rate risk by purchasing put
options on British pounds, which will give it the right to sell a specified amount of British pounds
for a specified exchange rate up to a specified point in time. One key limitation is that the number
of units for an options contract is standardized and therefore will not match the exact number of
pounds that the Sports Exports Company would need to sell each month.
3. Jim Logan, owner of the Sports Exports Company, is concerned that the pound may depreciate
substantially over the next month, but he also believes that the pound could appreciate
substantially if specific situations occur. Should Jim use currency futures or currency options to
hedge the exchange rate risk? Is there any disadvantage of selecting this method for hedging?
ANSWER: Jim may consider purchasing put options, which provide a greater degree of flexibility.
The option provides a hedge if the pound depreciates, but does not need to be exercised if the
pound appreciates.
Chapter 5: Currency Derivatives
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The disadvantage of purchasing put options is that a premium must be paid to purchase the
options, whereas such a premium would not have to be paid when using futures contracts to
hedge.
Part 1—Integrative Problem
The International Financial Environment
Mesa Company specializes in the production of small fancy picture frames, which are exported from
the U.S. to the United Kingdom. Mesa invoices the exports in pounds and converts the pounds to
dollars when they are received. The British demand for these frames is positively related to economic
conditions in the United Kingdom. Assume that British inflation and interest rates are similar to the
rates in the U.S. Mesa believes that the U.S. balance-of-trade deficit from trade between the U.S. and
the United Kingdom will adjust to changing prices between the two countries, while capital flows will
adjust to interest rate differentials. Mesa believes that the value of the pound is very sensitive to
changing international capital flows, and is moderately sensitive to international trade flows. Mesa is
considering the following information:
•
•
The U.K. inflation rate is expected to decline, while U.S. inflation rate is expected to rise.
British interest rates are expected to decline, while U.S. interest rates are expected to increase.
1. Explain how the international trade flows should initially adjust in response to the changes in
inflation (holding exchange rates constant). Explain how the international capital flows should
adjust in response to the changes in interest rates (holding exchange rates constant).
ANSWER: The U.S. balance-of-trade deficit should increase in response to the changes in
inflation, since prices of U.S. exports will increase if U.S. inflation rises, causing a decline in the
British demand for U.S. exports. In addition, the U.S. demand for British exports should increase
if U.S. prices increase.
The capital flows from the U.S. to the U.K. should decrease in response to lower British interest
rates, while the capital flows from the U.K. to the U.S. should increase (assuming exchange rates
are held constant).
2. Using the information provided, will Mesa expect the pound to appreciate or depreciate in the
future? Explain.
ANSWER: The pound’s equilibrium value will change in response to changes in the capital flows
and changes in the trade flows. The information on interest rates suggests that capital flows from
the U.S. to the U.K. will decrease, (because British interest rates are expected to decline), while
flows from the U.K. to the U.S. will increase (because U.S. interest rates are expected to rise).
These forces will place downward pressure on the pound’s value.
The information on inflation rates suggests that the U.S. will purchase more British goods
(increased U.S. demand for pounds) and will sell less goods to the U.K. (reduced supply of pounds
to be exchanged for dollars), based on the relative changes in prices in the two countries. These
forces will place upward pressure on the pound’s value.
The international capital flow forces will place downward pressure on the pound’s value, while the
international trade flow forces will place upward pressure on the pound’s value. Since the
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International Financial Management
international capital flows are thought by Mesa to have a larger effect, Mesa expects that the net
effect will be a decline in the pound’s value.
3. Mesa believes international capital flows shift in response to changing interest rate differentials. Is
there any reason why the changing interest rate differentials in this example will not necessarily
cause international capital flows to change significantly? Explain.
ANSWER: Given the potential upward pressure placed on the pound by the potential balance of
trade adjustment, some investors may anticipate that the pound could appreciate. This may
discourage British investors from attempting to capitalize on the higher U.S. interest rates (if the
U.S. interest rates do rise as expected). If the uncertainty about the future exchange rate
discourages British capital flows to the U.S., there is no reason to expect the pound to depreciate.
4. Based on your answer to question 2, how would Mesa’s cash flows be affected by the expected
exchange rate movements? Explain.
ANSWER: Mesa’s cash flows would be adversely affected, because the pounds received by Mesa
would convert to a smaller amount of dollars if the pound weakens.
5. Based on your answer to question 4, should Mesa consider hedging its exchange rate risk? If so,
explain how it could hedge using forward contracts, futures contracts, and currency options.
ANSWER: Mesa should consider hedging exchange rate risk. It could use forward contracts to sell
pounds forward (for future dates in which pounds will be received). Second, it could use currency
futures contracts to sell pounds at the first available settlement date following the receipt of
pounds. Third, it could purchase currency put options to hedge its pound receivables, as these
options lock in the price at which Mesa could exchange pounds for dollars.